Transmission

A factory-fitted limited-slip differential was always a selling point of the Escort RS Turbo, and the Series 2’s B5 gearbox was equipped with a viscous coupling LSD that was smoother than the Series 1’s thanks to revised coupling plates.

The Series 2’s ‘box was fitted with a 3.82:1 ratio, as opposed to its predecessor’s 4.29:1 final drive – which made for relaxed cruising, and is a nice compromise for tuned motors. It also benefitted from a larger (218mm) clutch and flywheel, which helped. A bit.

Sadly, though, the RS Turbo transmission is renowned for being weak, prone to worn synchros, tired linkages and rumbling bearings. And, if you’ve upped the engine power, it won’t be long before the clutch starts slipping. There’s no particular point at which this will happen, so it’s best to upgrade as soon as possible; a Helix or AP Racing four-paddle clutch and stock pressure plate is handy for a useable road car, while OKC’s Helix six-paddle makes sense for RSTs kicking out between 250bhp and 500bhp.

The gearbox itself is good for 200bhp at a push, at which point you’ll be needing something a little stronger. Easiest is probably a meaty CTS gear kit, backed up with a Quaife ATB and quick-shift mechanism.

If that’s too pricey, consider fitting an IB5 gearbox, as found in late Zetec- engined Fords; choose the type with four-bolt mounting holes and frontfitted starter motor, preferably from a 1.8- engined model for the best ratios. Ideally, a Quaife ATB should be installed.

Stronger still would be OKC’s MTX75 conversion, using a Mk5 Escort RS2000 gearbox, which houses tough enough gears, CV joints and driveshafts to take the torque of any engine you’ll get beneath an RS Turbo’s bonnet. With Mondeo Mk1 equal-length driveshafts, it is, according to OKC, a real weapon. Again, though, that Quaife diff will be beneficial and you’ll need a few minor chassis mods.

Finally, if you’ve got the cash, think about the Focus ST170’s Getrag MT285 six-speed gearbox from NMS or Sitech. The internals are massive, purchase price is reasonable, and it can handle 400bhp. On the downside, making up a custom clutch and driveshafts won’t be cheap, and neither will installation… In which case, why not opt for a Focus RS Mk2 six-speeder - it’s the ultimate transmission this side of a sequential rally ‘box.